Sophomore Jaxon McQueary is helping shape how Baker students support one another. After experiencing the impact of mentorship early in his college career, he helped co-found the Baker School Mentorship Program to better support incoming students as they navigate both the university and the Baker community.
Originally from Washington, Illinois, McQueary came to the University of Tennessee to study public affairs and economics, with concentrations in national security and government relations. He arrived ready to challenge himself academically while also finding ways to get involved beyond the classroom.
That intention took shape quickly. Immersing himself in the Baker School, McQueary found a community where conversation and collaboration extended beyond the classroom.
“I was planning to take a step back once I got into college,” he said. “However, once I met all the amazing people at the Baker School and saw all the clubs that aligned with my interests, I decided I wanted to be involved as much as I could.”
A defining moment came during the Spring Break Washington Fellows trip, where graduate student mentors helped connect classroom learning to real-world policy work. Seeing their guidance firsthand inspired McQueary to co-found the Baker School Mentorship Program to support incoming students.
“We felt that they helped us understand what we were learning and offered valuable insight into future opportunities in D.C.,” McQueary said.
The program connects first-year students with experienced Baker peers who offer guidance, encouragement, and a clearer path into campus life.
Beyond mentorship, McQueary is active in student organizations serving as secretary of the Alexander Hamilton Society and participating in the Baker School Student Association. Through these roles, he engages in discussions on foreign policy and national security, strengthening his ability to approach complex issues with openness and perspective. He often reflects on former U.S. Senator Howard Baker Jr.’s phrase, “the other fella might be right,” using it as a reminder to listen first and thoughtfully consider differing viewpoints.
Outside of the Baker School, McQueary has pushed himself to engage more broadly across campus. Joining a fraternity introduced him to new perspectives and relationships, reinforcing his belief that public service begins with understanding people from different backgrounds.
Looking ahead, McQueary hopes to pursue a career in government relations or the foreign service. Through mentorship, leadership, and academic experiences, he is continuing to develop the skills necessary to achieve those goals.
What began as a desire to be intentional with his involvement has grown into a dedication to helping others find their place, shaping the kind of leader he hopes to become.
Jordan Wilson, author
Jordan is a student at the University of Tennessee, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Advertising. She is a communications intern at the Baker School, focusing on website design, story creation and social media.